The Slovenian Emigrant Association (SIM) has been cooperating with emigrants for 70 years. Since its founding in 1951, it has helped strengthen the national consciousness of Slovenians, especially their descendants living abroad. 70 years have passed since the founding of the SIM. 70 years of successful work deserve to be marked on the occasion of the high anniversary.
On Thursday, October 21, 2021, a ceremonial academy was held at the City Hall in Ljubljana. Among the numerous invited guests, the solemn event was attended by five members of the Association of Slovenians Triglav Banja Luka and their president, Mrs. Marija Grbić.
At the beginning of the ceremonial academy, a film about the emigrants, their work, successes, their lives was shown, and we also listened to conversations with the presidents of numerous societies from abroad and the world. The film was followed by songs performed by the Slovenian Octet. The Slovenian Octet was founded on the initiative of the SIM, and they are also celebrating an important anniversary. At the event, we felt a strong will to preserve Slovenian culture, language and identity. Welcoming speeches by the President of the SIM, Boris Jesih, PhD, and the Minister from the Office for Slovenians Abroad, Helena Jaklitsch, PhD, who on this occasion presented the SIM with an award for their work. The keynote speaker was academic professor Boštjan Žekš, PhD.
Special recognition for the work done and the mission was given to the first and long-standing president, Mr. Sergei Pelhan and former Secretary Mr. Janez Rogelj and many others who are responsible for the successful projects of the SIM. The members of the Triglav Association were especially praised by the President of the Association, Mrs. Marija Grbić.
Nataša Kajmaković
Translation Ana Marjanović
